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Speed pedelecNetherlands

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Netherlands

77. Speed pedelec

A speed pedelec is a high-speed electrically assisted bicycle whose motor can continue providing pedal assistance above the normal electric-bicycle assistance limit, typically up to approximately 45 km/h. It has pedals and is primarily designed to assist the rider while pedalling.

Because of its higher speed, a speed pedelec may legally be treated differently from an ordinary bicycle or electric bicycle. Special rules can apply concerning the minimum age, driving licence, helmet, registration, insurance, cycle-path use and permitted roads, depending on the country.

Speed pedelec
A Speedpedelec of German manufacturer 'Riese und Müller'.
Wikimedia.org • Sänger • CC BY-SA
What is a speed pedelec?

A speed pedelec is an electrically assisted pedal cycle capable of providing motor assistance at higher speeds than an ordinary electric bicycle, commonly up to approximately 45 km/h.

What is the difference between a speed pedelec and an ordinary electric bicycle?

An ordinary electrically assisted bicycle normally stops providing motor assistance at a lower speed, commonly around 25 km/h. A speed pedelec can continue assisting the rider at higher speeds.

Do you still have to pedal a speed pedelec?

Normally yes. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide assistance while the rider pedals, although limited walking or starting assistance may also be provided.

Can a speed pedelec travel at 45 km/h?

Many speed pedelecs are designed to provide assistance up to approximately 45 km/h. The actual permitted speed must still comply with the local speed limit and traffic conditions.

Do you need a driving licence for a speed pedelec?

This depends on the country's legal classification. Some countries classify speed pedelecs similarly to mopeds and require an appropriate driving licence.

Is a helmet compulsory on a speed pedelec?

Helmet requirements vary between countries, but because speed pedelecs travel considerably faster than ordinary bicycles, specific helmet requirements commonly apply.

Does a speed pedelec need a licence plate?

In countries where speed pedelecs are classified as mopeds or another motor-vehicle category, registration and a licence plate may be compulsory.

Does a speed pedelec need insurance?

This depends on its technical characteristics and local law. Some jurisdictions require motor-vehicle liability insurance, while others exempt pedal-assisted speed pedelecs under specified conditions.

Can a speed pedelec use a cycle path?

This depends on the country, road speed limit and traffic signs. Speed pedelecs may be permitted, required or prohibited on particular cycle paths.

Can a speed pedelec use a motorway?

Speed pedelecs are generally unsuitable for motorways and are commonly prohibited where mopeds or low-speed vehicles are not permitted. Follow the local access rules.

Can you carry a passenger on a speed pedelec?

This depends on the vehicle's construction and local rules. Where passengers are permitted, the speed pedelec must be designed and equipped to carry them safely.

Is a speed pedelec the same as an electric moped?

No. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide pedal assistance, while an electric moped can normally propel itself without requiring the rider to pedal. Their legal classifications may nevertheless be closely related.

1 Netherlands 2 Motorway 3 Expressway 4 Residential area 5 Zone 6 Speed limit 7 Footpath 8 Bike path 9 Cycling street 10 Pedestrian zone 11 Slope 12 Bus stop 13 Dead end 14 Stop sign 15 Give way 16 Roundabout 17 Priority road 18 Railway crossing 19 School area 20 Overtaking 21 Crossing animals 22 Roadworks 23 Weight limit 24 Radar speed sign 25 Selective barriers 26 Low-emission zone 27 Priority at the next junction 28 Traffic lights 29 Traffic lights warning 30 Road markings 31 Speed feedback 32 Traffic mirror 33 Emergency telephone 34 Cycling route 35 Parking 36 No parking 37 No stopping 38 Park and ride 39 Kiss and ride 40 Parking disc 41 Disabled parking 42 Traffic management 43 Merging 44 Reversing 45 Uncontrolled crossroad 46 Advisory cycle lane 47 Rush-hour lane 48 Emergency exit 49 Oversize load 50 City limit 51 Parking zone 52 Axle weight limit 53 Licence plate 54 Charging station 55 Dangers 56 Equestrian trail 57 Cyclist 58 Truck 59 Bus 60 Police 61 Ambulance 62 Bicycle parking station 63 Tram lights 64 European emission standard 65 Pothole 66 Path 67 Particulates 68 Air pollution 69 Rush hour 70 Road code 71 Street gutter 72 Cargo bike 73 Forestry vehicle 74 Construction vehicle 75 Semi-trailer truck 76 Trolleybus 77 Speed pedelec 78 Delivery vehicle 79 Idling 80 Tow truck 81 Four-wheel drive 82 No vehicles 83 Bicycle 84 Motorcycle equipment 85 Rail track 86 Caravan 87 Trailer 88 Tow hitch 89 Fire truck 90 Siren 91 Convoy 92 Emergency vehicle lighting 93 Agricultural machinery 94 Electric bicycle 95 Electric vehicle 96 Pedelec 97 Quadricycle 98 Microcar 99 All-terrain vehicle 100 Van ...